Police Look Into Two Swanage Arson Attacks

Police in Swanage are investigating two suspected arson attacks in four days.

The emergency services were called to an incident at approximately 8pm on Wednesday 11 June 2014 at a garage along Victoria Avenue where a stock pile of wood had been deliberately ignited.

Dorset Police, Dorset Fire and Rescue Service and the ambulance service attended.

The offenders, two boys, were disturbed when the occupants of the property returned home.

The boys have been described as white and about 10 to 13 years old. One of them may have been wearing a horizontally striped top – possibly orange or red in colour.

Police Constable Kyle Hickman, of Purbeck police, said: “This was a highly dangerous incident that has caused damage to the building.

“It also endangered the occupants who tried to extinguish the fire suffering the effects of smoke inhalation.

“This was the second incident in three days. Between 3pm and 3.15pm on Sunday 8 June 2014 offenders entered derelict classrooms in the old grammar school along Northbrook Road, piled up furniture and set it alight.

“I urge witnesses, anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the areas at the relevant times and anyone with information about those responsible to come forward as soon as possible. All calls are treated in the strictest confidence.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 11:450. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.